Short Summary

European Common Market representatives, in trade talks with Third World states Abidjan, have agreed to a massive economic aid programme for 46 African, Caribbean and Pacific nations.

Description

European Common Market representatives, in trade talks with Third World states Abidjan, have agreed to a massive economic aid programme for 46 African, Caribbean and Pacific nations.

SYNOPSIS: Meeting at Yamoussokro, outside Abijan, Common Market officials have agreed to provide 4000,000.000 U.S. dollars (nearly GBP 300,000,000 sterling) to boost the economies of developing nations. The countries to benefit are all members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States associated with the lome Convention.

Funds for food technology and agriculture will form much of the aid. Several Pacific states will receive general economic assistance as well. Others in West Africa, will have help with road construction, electrification and water technology.

Monsieur Jacques David, the principal representative of the European Common Market at the talks, announced the aid programme. Officials for both sides say they are pleased with the way the talks are going. They say they are hopeful the discussions will reach a satisfactory conclusion when the talks end on the 7th of July.